Each 3 way switch in these examples are controlling the power source to the same load. Typical 3 way switch wiring nm cable.
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3 way switch wiring drawing. With a pair of 3 way switches either can make or break the connection that completes the circuit to the light. 3 way switch circuits variations. This might seem intimidating but it does not have to be. Before reading this page you may want to visit 3 way switches and 4 way switches. In this video the instructor shows the students how to draw a ladder schematic from their three way switch project. 3 way switch wiring edisonhvac.
Wiring a 3 way light switch. Below is perhaps the simplest arrangement panel to switch to switch to. The ground wire is pigtailed with a wire connector at the switch boxes and the ceiling box. When wiring a 3 way switch circuit we will be using a 3 wire cable known as romex coming from the source such as the breaker box. Fixture between two three way switches. The diagrams below show the conventional wiring for 3 way switches.
The black line wire connects to the common terminal of the first 3 way switch. Wires consisting of a line a load a neutral a pair of travelers and two 3 way switches. Attach to the bonded ground wires in the switch box. Components of 3 way switch wiring. Traveler wires are interchangeable. These wires attach to the travelers which are the pair of wires attached to the two screws at one end of the regular 3 way switch.
Unfortunately not all 3 way switches are wired the conventional way. If you are trying to troubleshoot a 3 way switch operation you will need to identify the function of each wire. In the 1st diagram below a 2 wire nm cable supplies power from the panel to the first switch box. 3 way switch wiring diagram. Then a 4 wire cable going between the two 3 way switches and then a 3 wire cable going from the switches to the load. Colors are shown consistent with the nec.
Here are several variations of using 3 way switches to control lights from two locations. Take a closer look at a 3 way switch wiring diagram. Wiring a 3 way light switch is certainly more complicated than that of the more common single pole switch but you can figure it out if you follow our 3 way switch wiring diagram. Wiring a standard 3 way dimmer switch. 3 way dimmer switches typically come with the following pre wired leads. With these diagrams below it will take the guess work out of wiring.
All three way switch and 2 way switch wiring diagrams have the same basic components. A 3 wire nm connects the traveler terminals of the first and second 3 way switch together. Power through switch light is controlled by two three way switches with the light between the switches and the power first going through a switch then to the light and onto the second three way switch. Pick the diagram that is most like the scenario you are in and see if you can wire your switch. If you have any problems with these switches it may be best to call an electrician. See alternate 3 way switch wiring configuration for another way 3 way switches may be wired.